Addressing the Challenges of Open-Source Software in Technology Transactions

Open-source software (OSS), by its nature, is sometimes overlooked as part of technology transactions. OSS is often a key aspect of a business’s software ecosystem, whether it is used in internal systems or forms a fundamental part of solutions that are sold to customers or used to provide services to customers; however, OSS often sits in the background, as a foundation of a software solution, and can therefore go unconsidered by those not familiar with its uses, benefits, and risks….

Why it matters:

  • OSS oversight can lead to incomplete technology transaction assessments
  • Understanding OSS risks and benefits is crucial for proper due diligence

Key Points

  • OSS is often overlooked in technology transactions despite being foundational
  • OSS serves as key component in both internal systems and customer solutions
  • OSS typically operates in background, making it invisible to unfamiliar stakeholders
  • Lack of OSS awareness can result in incomplete transaction evaluations
  • Greater OSS consideration needed for comprehensive risk management

Source: Read original

Summary

The article discusses how open-source software (OSS) is frequently overlooked in technology transactions despite being a crucial component of business software ecosystems. OSS plays a vital role in both internal systems and customer-facing solutions, often serving as the foundational layer that enables various software functionalities. However, because OSS typically operates behind the scenes, it often goes unnoticed by stakeholders who are not familiar with its specific applications, benefits, and associated risks. This oversight can lead to significant gaps in understanding during technology transactions, potentially resulting in incomplete assessments of software value and compliance issues. The article emphasizes the need for greater awareness and consideration of OSS in technology transactions to ensure comprehensive evaluation and proper risk management.

Why It Matters

OSS oversight can lead to incomplete technology transaction assessments
Understanding OSS risks and benefits is crucial for proper due diligence

Key Points

  • OSS is often overlooked in technology transactions despite being foundational
  • OSS serves as key component in both internal systems and customer solutions
  • OSS typically operates in background, making it invisible to unfamiliar stakeholders
  • Lack of OSS awareness can result in incomplete transaction evaluations
  • Greater OSS consideration needed for comprehensive risk management

Source: www.morganlewis.com

Original Publish Date: 13/11/2025

Entities: No specific entities mentioned in article